Jardiniere
late 18th century
Medium
ceramics
Classification
ceramics
Department
Smithsonian Collection
Museum
Smithsonian American Art Museum
Credit
Gift of Eleanor Garnier Hewitt
Accession Number
1931-40-38
About this artwork
Research in Progress
Art Historical Context
This elegant *Jardinière*, dating to the late 18th century is a fine example of American ceramics from the early years of the republic. Crafted by an unknown artist, this decorative flower pot or stand—known as a jardinière—would have graced affluent homes, holding lush plants to bring a touch of nature indoors. Made of ceramics, it exemplifies the period's growing mastery of clay-based techniques, likely involving wheel-throwing or molding followed by glazing for durability and sheen. In the post-Revolutionary era, ceramics like this one symbolized emerging American craftsmanship, blending E...
About the Artist
Unknown
The artist designated as "Unknown" in our virtual museum's collection exemplifies a poignant chapter in art history: creators whose identities have faded into obscurity despite the enduring power of their work. With only one known artwork attributed to them in our holdings, this figure represents countless anonymous hands that shaped visual culture across centuries. Museums worldwide, including th...